Chelmsford Public Schools announced that kindergarten registration will take place by appointment at the district central office on Jan. 28 and Jan. 29, with hours from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“Families are booking their 15 minute appointments now, and this really helps us get a good jump on our kindergarten enrollment numbers for next school year,” said Joanna, a central office staff member who presented the item.

The registration packet — available on the district website and shared through ConnectED messages — includes a checklist of documents families must bring to complete enrollment. Joanna said the district will ask committee members and staff to help spread the word to families who may not receive school newsletters. “If you know someone who’s going to have a kindergartner next fall, please let them know. They can come in and register in January,” Joanna said.

Committee members discussed outreach pathways, including social media and the town website. One committee member asked whether details were posted to Facebook; Joanna said staff will follow up with Jenny, who handles communications, and noted the registration is posted on the district front page and in the action center. Joanna also confirmed that registration is free and that kindergarten is full day: “It’s free. Full day.”

School clerks from each elementary school will staff registration days so families can connect directly with their child’s school during the appointment, Joanna said. The packet and online information list the items required to register; the packet’s specific checklist was described as included but not read aloud.

Why it matters: early registration helps the district estimate kindergarten enrollment for staffing and classroom planning. School officials asked committee members to help amplify registration notices to reach families who may not receive regular school communications.

Looking ahead: district staff said the next regular meetings in late January and February will include more extensive agenda items, including budget discussions tied to upcoming fiscal planning.